Make It: A Tray Styled 2 Ways

I've been thinking a lot about different ways to repurpose objects around the house. It is as important to me to find ways to reuse objects in our home, as it is to downsize the number of them. Trays are one of those amazing objects that can be used in a million different ways, and you can easily change the look of them with just a can of paint. To illustrate this with you I decided to restyle one tray two ways.

Style One: Lazy Weekend Breakfast Tray

The first style of tray I made was a breakfast tray, for those lazy weekends in bed. The steps are quite simple and the result is as adorable as it is functional.

For both projects the first couple of steps are the same. You'll need white paint for priming, a wooden tray (I bought mine at JoAnn's), and a paint brush. Start by painting a base coat of white on the tray. It may take several layers to cover up the wood grain, so be patient. Once your tray is an opaque white you'll have to choose which style of tray you'd like to style.

Step 2- Let the primer dry completely before starting the next step. I let it dry a full 24 hours before moving on.

Step 3- Place your breakfast in bed dishes on the tray. I used a cup, plate, napkin, fork, and vase on mine.

Step 4- Using a pencil trace around the objects. For the fork you may need to free hand it a little bit.

Step 5- Using a paint marker, outline your tracing. 

Step 6- Using an alphabet stamp set, and ink pad; spell out what each item on the tray is. For example: plate. 

Step 7- You may need to use a permanent marker/paint marker to fill in light spots if your ink isn't very opaque.

Step 8- Let your tray dry completely. 

Step 9- Dish your plate, and dress you tray. Breakfast never looked so sweet.

Style Two: Sophisticated Copper Catch-all

The second style of tray I made was for our coffee table. Nothing makes me as crazy as a messy seating area! I wanted something that could hold a pretty potted plant, and our remotes with ease. This is a more sophisticated look, with a copper finish.

Step 2- Let the primer dry completely before starting the next step. I let it dry a full 24 hours before moving on.

Step 3- Grab a small container of liquid gold (again I bought mine at JoAnn's). I used the copper color, but it comes in a wide array of metallics. I like this brand because the metallics seem a little more shiny than other options.

Step 4- Paint your tray with the liquid gold. Make sure to use long brush strokes, all in the same direction, and go slowly. If you switch directions the paint will look sloppy.

Step 5- Let the paint dry completely. Because this paint is oil based, I suggest using a brush you don't mind trowing away afterward, or pick-up some paint thinner to soak it in.

Step 6- After your tray is completely dry, grab a paint marker in a complimentary color to your decor and paint the inside of the handles for a little pop of color. I chose a minty green, just for fun!

Step 7- Let the paint marker dry completely before moving.

Step 8- Style your tray however you like. Step back to admire your tidier space.

I'd like to thank Cara-Mia who inspired this DIY after seeing her sweet coffee station post! Happy crafting friends. big kiss, bekuh